Recording and Counting Transactions

Counting Transactions

The Function Tree and the Data Tree are used to model the functionality delivered by the software that will be function point counted. The Function Tree is where the Transactions (Elementary Processes) are recorded. The Data Tree is where the Data Groups or logical files (ILFs and EIFs) are counted. The Attributes Tree and Notes Tree are used for selective profiling and documenting the functionality, (see Types of Hierarchy Trees).

HINT: The lowest level of the function tree (process level) is the level at which function points are assigned. If you do not wish to take the time to model your software then create a single Function node and just list your processes below.

Recording Processes on the Function Tree

• Press Alt+Ins to insert Function Folder nodes. These represent the major functional areas of the software. Insert the name of the node on the RH side Detail view or double click the node name or press F2 to rename.
• Continue decomposing the software hierarchically by inserting functions until you reach a stage where you identify individual elementary Processes.
• Press Ins to insert an elementary Process.
• Use the detail view (select the Details Tab at the top of the screen or double click the node) to enter the Functional Size details of Process Type and Complexity. The Process type defaults to Input and the complexity to Average.
• Select any of the following options from Result Source to override the default complexity:
• • Range: select the appropriate range of DETs (unique fields entering or exiting the Process) and FTRs (unique Data Groups accessed by the Process)
  • Assessment: select Low, Average or High
  • Enter Value: insert the actual number of DETs and FTRs
  • Default: accept the industry default value of Average
  • Derived: calculates complexity from the number of Data Groups (FTRs) and DETs linked to the process

See features that SCOPE has included to really speed up your counting